BEST SPIKELESS SHOE OF 2019

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This shoe is in a class by itself. The Tour 360 XT-SL gives adidas the win in both the 2019 spiked and spikeless shoe category. It offers exceptional arch support with an advanced sole design that provides remarkable traction. For many that demand comfort, Adidas’s boost technology provides the best in the industry. Its classic yet stylish design is sure to catch your eye.

The newcomer Inesis, by Decathlon, waterproof shoe stunned us with its incredible combination of affordability and performance. This is a top-notch golf shoe. Its traction is a major highlight even on rainy days. Inesis’ comfort is superior thanks to its supple insole which gives the sensation of waves rippling under your foot. Trust us when we say this, you want this shoe.

Last season’s winner, the PUMA Grip Fusion, again proved tough to beat. Its stable platform prevents over-rotation and provides control on even your most powerful swings. The Fusion’s easy wipe material makes cleaning after a round a breeze. Even though its traction is better than most, it could be improved in wet conditions.

The adidas 4orged, like their XT-SL, provides all-day cushion and stability utilizing the boost foam material in a lightweight design. Though it might not be waterproof, it is water repellent which holds up in a light April shower.

If you want a shoe you can take straight from the course to the bar to your kids recital THIS is the shoe for you. PUMA’s Grip Fusion Sport earns the best lifestyle shoe for 2019. Its casual but refined look will appeal to a broad audience without hurting your wallet in the process.

Pros

Comfortable yet versatile everyday shoe

Wide sole prevents over-rotation

Cons

Mesh material is difficult to clean

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2019 SPIKELESS SHOE BUYERS GUIDE

Trivia Time:

What do Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Adam Scott, and Fred Couples have in common?…You guessed it. They all play golf. Not only that, they all play impressive golf in spikeless golf shoes. If it’s good enough for them, why not for you?

Companies are building performance shoes with the comfort of your everyday gym shoe, but the grip of a trusty spiked shoe. Extensive testing at MyGolfSpy headquarters only confirmed our growing suspicions. Spikeless shoes are a force to be reckoned with and their spiked older brothers should watch out.

Whether you’re looking to buy a new spikeless shoe today, looking for some buying advice, or just want a closer look at what’s on the market right now, this guide will help you find the right spikeless shoe to fit your needs.

How We Test

We're here to help you find the perfect spike-less shoe for your needs.

To do that, we employ a rigorous and fully independent testing process that leaves no sole unexplored, no arch unsupported, and no stone unturned.

The Test Process

Shoes are tested head to head with rigorous protocols. Consideration is given to the design, comfort, and ultimately the performance of the shoe, both while walking and while swinging.

Our Metrics

The metrics we consider when rating golf shoes include Comfort, Traction, Stability, Resistance to the Elements, and Style.

GOLF SHOE FEATURES THAT MATTER

Comfort

It’s important to understand that a significant portion of comfort comes from proper sizing. If you have a wide foot, you should absolutely gravitate to brands that offer wide sizing. The same is true for the narrow-footed among us. Every aspect of golf shoe performance begins with a proper fit.

A golf shoe should be comfortable from the moment it goes on your foot. There shouldn’t be any rubbing or discomfort after just a few minutes of use. A quality golf shoe doesn’t require any significant break-in period. Simply put, under no circumstance should comfort be sacrificed.

Traction

The last thing you want is to slip or spin out during your swing. Seldom is a quality golf shot preceded by a slip. There is significant variation in the traction offered in spikeless designs. Shoes that are designed to go from the office to the golf course sometimes sacrifice traction for everyday functionality. While the versatility is convenient, it may not serve you well on the golf course, particularly when the course isn’t dry.

Stability

While it’s not universally true, in general, spikeless designs tend to be less stable than traditional spikeless shoes. Some of that is by design, as early spikeless designs were intentionally unstructured to allow more freedom of movement within the shoe and increased comfort. As the spikeless shoe has gone mainstream, more traditional – i.e., stable – designs have emerged giving those who want it, options for greater stability. The most stable designs tend to look more like traditional golf shoes, and aren’t as well-suited for everyday wear. As with spiked designs, the level of stability necessary depends on the golfer, and it remains true that a shoe should never be so unstable that it allows the foot to spill over the edge of the footbed.

EXPERT TIP - What Does Fit Really Mean?

It cannot be overemphasized: Fit is the most critical element of golf shoe performance. As you likely know, sizing is often inconsistent from brand to brand and even from model to model. The length and width of supposedly same-sized shoes varies tremendously, as do other fit-related elements like the toe box, mid-foot section, and heel cup. You're going to want to ensure that the shoe you buy is snug, yet comfortable and requires next to no breaking-in time.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - PUMA IGNITE NXT

The PUMA IGNITE NXT offers three different closure styles (Disc, Soleace, lace). While each fits a bit differently, they all offer midfoot stability uniquely tailored to your footwear needs. The IGNITE NXT LACE (tested), features a traditional lace system for those who like to do things the old-fashioned way. The IGNITE foam sole is incredibly responsive making it an exceptional walking shoe. It's so comfortable, you wouldn't know it's a golf shoe unless you know it's a golf shoe.

EXPERT TIP - Traction is your friend

When playing your shot, you never want to be worrying about slipping or spinning out of the shot. Your swing is the star of the show, and it can't perform its best when your feet are sliding out from under you. Your shoes are meant to be silent partners, supportive and reliable, not something you need to worry about letting you down. Choose a shoe that has your back, keeps you firmly planted, and supports you for an entire round.

More Tips

Not everyone needs the most stable golf shoe one can find. It’s worth doing some experimenting with different shoe designs to determine what level of stability works best for you based on how you load your swing.

For those who do require more stability, look for designs with some form of “cage” technology in the mid-foot section to help keep you anchored in your shoe. While this type of construction has traditionally been reserved for spiked designs, as the market has moved towards spikeless, companies are beginning to incorporate stability-enhancing elements into their spikeless designs.

BOA/DISC offerings are not as prevalent in spikeless designs. However, it remains true that, when offered, these systems secure the shoe, and ultimately your foot, differently than the laced alternative. If something doesn’t feel quite right in an otherwise comfortable shoe, it may be worth trying the BOA/DISC alternative when it’s offered. Note that these closure systems often increase the cost of the shoe.

While style preferences will vary among golfers, comfort is an absolute. Make it your top priority and don’t sacrifice it for any reason.

Even with spikeless designs, a healthy percentage of comfort comes from proper fitting. Take the time to have your foot measured to ensure you’re buying and wearing the proper size.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - Skechers Mojo Elite

You're going to want some Mojo in your life after checking out the new Skechers Mojo Elite. They're spikeless, they're breathable, and Skecher's legendary comfort doesn't come at the expense of stability. Laugh if you like, but Skechers has become a force to be reckoned with in the spikeless category.

FAQ

Q: How much should I spend on a shoe?

A: We’ve found that it’s possible to find a well-designed, fully featured golf shoes for around $80. That said, the majority of top performers, including our choice for Best Overall, are closer to $200. As with anything else, your rate of play should factor in the decision. Golfers who play just a few times a year may be able to find a suitable option for less. Just don’t skimp on comfort to save a buck.

Q: What is the main feature I should look out for when buying a spikeless shoe?

A: Comfort is by far the most important factor, followed by traction. While stability is an important consideration, the level of stability needed varies between golfers. Only after you have those three considerations covered should style factor into the decision.

Q: Is BOA/DISC technology better than laces?

A: Use of BOA and DISC technology is less prevalent in spikeless designs, but some golfers prefer modern closure systems to traditional laces, but it’s certainly not a universal preference. Users of BOA and DISC report a tendency for their shoes to loosen throughout a round, and while that’s not a big deal to re-tighten, it can become an annoyance. Also consider that if a shoelace breaks, it’s easily replaceable, whereas warranty replacements for other closure systems can take some time.

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Christopher Gordon

CalGolfer

11 months ago

In the market now and for the $109 price point I thought the Adidas Adipower 4orged S would be a good choice….until I tried them on and discovered its tongue design was too long and the front edge cut into the front of my shin…also since it is made out of very thin material, the edge was relatively sharp. Really a shame as rest of the shoe seemed very comfortable and good-fitting. Looks like I’ll have to go with the more expensive Adidas 360’s; probably the spikeless model – they are definitely comfortable as your rankings suggest.

Drew

Thomas

8 months ago

This does not square with my 15-year experience with them: If you can reach a Decathlon store (yes, Inesis is only one of their distributor brands), they will systematically exchange your product without question.

Btw Other than being a customer, I have no link with them.

Drew

8 months ago

Wanted to provide an update that it was my error that I did not hear from them. I requested the refund from a different email but they responded to the email used to place the order (and I rarely use or check that email).
So my apologies. I also tried the shoes out again and decided to keep them. I did use a golf cart this time but I have a feeling they just needed to be broken in. It was the rainiest round of golf for the season and they provided excellent grip and kept my feet dry. Still not sure how walking will be but they are worth keeping in my book.

Morphs

1 month ago

I had exactly the same problem… The shoes felt ok in the store, but after 5 mins on the golf course I got some serious blisters…. Brought them back, money refunded no questions asked.

Will

Sharkhark

1 year ago

Note for those that might take an interest in the INESIS the image they show is a women’s shoe.
I kept searching couldn’t find that style color until I found it under women’s for those guys interested.
Also a bit confusing searching for buying them the name is INESIS but sold by decathalon

I’m the U.S. brand manager for Inesis. I’ve heard from our customers and from personal experience that the waterproof shoes run true to size. Also, we ship to all 50 U.S. states, so if you’re in Alaska, you should beeligible to receive them! Hope this helps.

Charlie

1 year ago

How did the Inesis not win?? It was first place in every category except for ‘looks’. If they are the most comfortable and have the best traction, I don’t care so much about loos. I’m going to order a pair and try them.

The difference between 1st and 2nd in an individual category might only be .5 of a point. In other categories the difference might be 5 or 10 points. Each category were based on you, the consumers feedback. There was a point difference between the Inesis and the winner. In one category the Inesis lost a few points on style and after everything added up, the numbers are what you see on the results chart. We are here to give you the best advice possible, but ultimately you make the final decision on what you want to buy based on our findings.

Mike Cahn

Dom

1 year ago

Great reviews as usual. But in terms of comfort, I think shoe width plays a big factor that’s not talked about enough. I have a wide foot and the True Linkswear Originals are by far the best shoe I have tried. The thin sole means there isn’t a lot of support but the feel like slippers. And you’re mostly walking on grass, so it’s even more comfortable. I also did some hiking with them on rocky terrain and they held up nicely. I’ve tried “wide” shoes from FootJoy, Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance, and Skechers. None can compare in terms of comfort. There’s a reason why I have three pairs of True Linkswear OGs at home and can’t wait to see what new colors they come out with.

Emery

1 year ago

Cannot beat a REAL supportive shoe like Adidas 360. If you want to wear jogging shoes, you have lots of options, but if you want a high end, high quality and stable shoe that is orthotically balanced, then the 360’s are very hard to beat. I own several pairs and have several of a lot of other manufactures in the closet that will be donated.

Mike D

1 year ago

I tried the Puma Ignite Solelace this year (not one of the top shoes, but it is part of one of the spotlights above). Based on my experience, the comfort and traction ratings seem accurate – very comfortable, but traction isn’t great. The biggest problem I had: the lacing TPU snapped while tightening them last night (only my second time wearing them aside from trying them on for size), so I’m now waiting on customer service to see if they’ll replace them or if I’m out of luck.

Is there a reason you left New Balance shoes out of the test? The NB Minimus SL are my favorite walking shoes, so I’m interested in how they compete in other categories. Is it just that they haven’t released many (or any) new products in this category recently?

Mike D

1 year ago

FWIW – Puma customer service was great. After calling, they were quick to act on it and offered up a choice for which model to send as a replacement (wasn’t required to be a 1-1 match). It’s possible that my case was just a manufacturing defect rather than a quality issue, but it was nice to have the option to switch to a different pair.

MattF

1 year ago

I see you fixed it, thanks Harry.

Juicy

1 year ago

My experience with the BOA system is that it definitely loosens up and can not work properly. Not sure if it’s dirt or just wear, etc. I have Footjoys with the BOA. I also have spikeless Pumas that I got at Costco for $40. I replaced the traditional laces with Lock Laces that I put in all my tennis and traditional golf shoes. Cheaper than one of the laceless system and easier too. Generally, once you have them set you just slide them on and off.

The Puma spikeless are great for comfort and really breathable, which is great for Florida heat, but you must be careful wear you step. Water easily soaks through the mesh and you’re socks are soaked. Even just morning dew from the rough will penetrate with no problem. Though that will likely evaporate off due to body heat.

Sharkhark

Christopher Langhoff

1 year ago

I know that Nike is a powerhouse brand and it seems that sometimes you like to focus on other brands and while I appreciate that education leaving out Nike in this test seems off base. Half the tour is in Nike Shoes, and yes they get paid but so many guys wear them they can’t be bad. I love my Nike React Vapor 2 and still like my Nike Vapor’s (which are spikeless). I don’t run in Nikes, so i am not a plant but you need to have them in the mix in my opinion. Thanks

Walter

Ednolan220

1 year ago

I have the Puma ignites, played 4 rounds in 3 days and my feet didn’t hurt at all .. got them on sale for around $62. Only cons is they run small, so I got the 11.5 instead of my normal 11. Did you guys notice them running small during your test?